Statewide, about three dozen beauty salons have faced disciplinary action in recent months for use of razor devices and other alleged violations including allowing pets on the premises, pedi-chair filters and screens clogged with mold and debris, failing to disinfect implements, failing to have at least one operable sterilizer, re-using nail buffers/files and waxing sticks, and offering waxing services by unlicensed workers.

Nail Designs in New Castle, owned and managed by Tran Ba Phuoc, also was accused of failing to clean and disinfect manicuring implements. However, the attorney general dismissed the complaint against Nail Designs after learning that it was a "closed business" due to a change of ownership. The salon is now operated by a new owner, Minh Ngo, under a new license.

At USA Nail in Richmond, the other alleged violations included not having a wet disinfectant, lack of a covered hamper for soiled towels, failing to disinfect implements, and an unsanitary floor. The state board of cosmetology has not yet imposed any disciplinary sanctions on USA Nail.

The board placed Red Nails on indefinite probation for violations of sanitation regulations as well as the presence of the prohibited razor devices.

An investigation by The New York Times found that manicurists are routinely underpaid and exploited, and endure ethnic bias and other abuse.

According to the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs, it also seems clear that both workers (largely immigrant women) and clients are being exposed to potentially harmful chemicals routinely used in salons. The department encourages consumers to ask your salon to use fans and ventilation, to tip directly to technicians, to ask your technician to keep bottles closed when not in use, to ask your salon to carry non-toxic products and to encourage technicians to wear gloves and masks.